Cultural Immersion in Kyoto: A Family Journey

Arashiyama's Enchanting Embrace

Today, Daniel and I embarked on a journey to Arashiyama, a district on the outskirts of Kyoto known for its natural beauty and cultural landmarks. It was a day filled with serene landscapes, playful encounters, and delicious food, making it a quintessential Kyoto experience. Leaving the modern comforts of M’s Hotel Sanjo Wakoku behind, we ventured into a world where ancient temples meet mischievous monkeys, and towering bamboo stalks whisper secrets to the wind.


Discover comfort and convenience at M’s Hotel Sanjo Wakoku, a serene retreat in the heart of Kyoto, perfect for travelers seeking culture and relaxation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto. The hotel offered a delightful spread, a mix of Western and Japanese options. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast, savoring the grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. Daniel, ever the Brit, went for the familiar comforts of eggs and toast, washed down with a strong coffee. Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Arashiyama.

Our first stop was the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As we stepped onto the path, we were immediately enveloped by the towering stalks of bamboo, their green culms reaching for the sky. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting an ethereal glow on the path below. The air was crisp and cool, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves, creating a soothing symphony of nature. Despite being a popular spot, the forest held a sense of tranquility, a place where one could escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find solace in nature. It was truly magical.


Experience the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, where nature and tranquility come together in a breathtaking landscape.

In the heart of Arashiyama, nature whispers tales of serenity and adventure, inviting you to lose yourself in its captivating embrace.

As we strolled through the bamboo grove, I couldn't help but reflect on the sustainable beauty of this natural wonder. Bamboo, a fast-growing and renewable resource, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. It reminded me of our commitment to sustainability, something Daniel and I always consider when planning our travels. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this enchanting place, but no picture could truly do it justice. You simply had to be there to experience the magic.

Next on our itinerary was Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple located adjacent to the bamboo forest. Founded in 1339, this temple is one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. We entered the temple grounds, passing through the imposing main gate and into a world of serene beauty. The Sogenchi Garden, designed by Muso Soseki, was a masterpiece of landscape design. A central pond reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a sense of depth and tranquility. Carefully placed rocks and meticulously pruned trees added to the garden's harmonious composition. Even in February, the garden possessed a quiet elegance, a testament to the enduring beauty of Japanese landscape design. I found myself drawn to the meticulously raked gravel, each line representing the flow of water, a symbol of the ever-changing nature of life.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. A cultural gem for every traveler.

We explored the temple buildings, admiring the traditional architecture and the intricate details of the artwork. The Hatto Hall was particularly impressive, with its ceiling featuring a stunning Cloud Dragon painting. Although the Hatto Hall is not open to the public every day, we were fortunate enough to visit on a day when it was accessible and were able to see the magnificent dragon. Daniel, with his keen interest in history, was fascinated by the temple's rich past and its connection to Zen Buddhism. We spent a considerable amount of time wandering through the gardens, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and marveling at the beauty of nature. It was a welcome respite from the crowds of the bamboo forest, a place to reflect and find inner peace.

After our visit to Tenryu-ji, we decided to have lunch at Oryori Menami. This restaurant is known for its Obanzai cuisine, a traditional Kyoto-style of home cooking that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and simple preparations. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and a menu that showcased the best of Kyoto's culinary heritage. We ordered a selection of Obanzai dishes, including simmered vegetables, grilled fish, and tofu prepared in various ways. Each dish was a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. The flavors were subtle yet complex, a perfect reflection of Kyoto's refined culinary traditions. It was a delightful meal that nourished both our bodies and our souls. Daniel, always eager to try new things, was particularly impressed by the delicate flavors and the artful presentation of the dishes.


Experience authentic Obanzai cuisine in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward at Oryori Menami - where tradition meets taste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off on our final adventure of the day: a visit to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. Located on a mountain overlooking Arashiyama, this park is home to a troop of wild Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys. The hike up to the park was a bit challenging, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we reached the summit, we were greeted by the sight of monkeys roaming freely, playing, grooming, and interacting with each other. It was an incredible experience to see these creatures in their natural habitat, so different from the zoos we are used to back in the UK. The monkeys were surprisingly unafraid of humans, although we were careful to maintain a respectful distance and follow the park's guidelines.


Discover the playful world of Japanese macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, a stunning wildlife experience in the heart of Kyoto.

We purchased some monkey food (peanuts and apple slices) and entered the feeding area, a small enclosure where visitors can safely feed the monkeys. The monkeys were eager to receive the treats, reaching out their hands and grabbing the food with surprising dexterity. It was a truly unforgettable experience to interact with these intelligent and curious creatures. Daniel, ever the animal lover, was in his element, snapping photos and marveling at the monkeys' antics. I must admit, I was a little nervous at first, but the monkeys' gentle nature quickly put me at ease. The views from the monkey park were also spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains. It was the perfect way to end our day in Arashiyama, surrounded by nature and the playful energy of the monkeys.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back down the mountain and headed towards Kyoto. Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to stop by L'Escamoteur, a bar known for its unique cocktails and magical atmosphere. The bar was dimly lit and decorated with quirky artifacts, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The bartender, a charismatic Frenchman, was a master of mixology, crafting inventive cocktails with flair and showmanship. Daniel ordered a classic Old Fashioned, while I opted for a more adventurous concoction, a gin-based cocktail infused with local herbs and spices. The drinks were delicious and the atmosphere was lively, making it a perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring. It was a delightful experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and memorable night out in Kyoto.


Discover L'Escamoteur, Kyoto's enchanting cocktail bar where artistry meets mixology in a whimsical atmosphere. Unforgettable drinks await!

For dinner, we chose Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, a local favorite known for its teppanyaki cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We were lucky to snag a reservation, as the restaurant is quite small and popular. The chefs, a husband and wife team, put on a fantastic show, grilling our food right in front of us on a large iron griddle. We ordered a selection of dishes, including A5 Wagyu beef, grilled seafood, and okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with cabbage, meat, and seafood. Each dish was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The Wagyu beef was particularly memorable, melting in our mouths with its rich and buttery texture. It was a truly unforgettable culinary experience, a perfect ending to our day of adventures. The owners were incredibly friendly and welcoming, adding to the restaurant's charm and making us feel like locals.


Experience authentic teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, Kyoto's premier destination for Japanese cuisine in a lively izakaya setting.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Arashiyama had to offer. From the serene beauty of the bamboo forest to the playful energy of the monkey park, it was a place that appealed to all the senses. It was a day of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and culinary delights, a true taste of Kyoto's magic. As we head to Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji tomorrow, I can only hope that it lives up to the experience we had today.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the enigmatic rock garden at Ryoan-ji. I'm particularly excited about Kinkaku-ji, as I've seen so many photos of its shimmering beauty, and I can't wait to experience it in person. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventures in this captivating city.